Oil slick from grounded ship off Oman spreads across 390 sq km

An oil slick originating from a grounded ship off Oman's Al Hallaniyat Islands has expanded to cover approximately 390 square kilometres, according to authorities. Emergency teams are working to contain the leak and secure the vessel, the Caroline Bezengi. Satellite imagery and technical analysis reveal that the pollution remains on the sea surface near the grounded ship, spreading northeast from the islands towards the mainland coast.

The slick has been observed along a track extending about 449km, moving northeast, with current modelling suggesting it could advance another 121km over the next 48 hours, contingent on wind, current, and sea conditions. The 390-sq-km figure represents the geographical area of detected pollution, not the volume of oil spilled. Experts caution that the forecast is based on scientific modelling rather than direct observation and may change.

The affected area includes environmentally sensitive marine and coastal zones. No threat to vital facilities such as desalination plants, aquaculture projects, or economic and tourism sites along the coast has been identified. Continuous monitoring of seawater quality is underway. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology reports that specialist teams are evaluating the ship's hull damage, identifying leak sources, and preparing to transfer its oil cargo safely for eventual salvage.

Difficult weather during the Khareef season has added complexity to operations, though it has also helped to push the oil away from Oman's shores. Protective measures for coral reefs, turtle nesting areas, and other delicate marine habitats remain a priority as the national response continues.